From the Research
Antiperspirant Chemicals and Cancer Risk
- The relationship between antiperspirant chemicals and cancer risk has been investigated in several studies 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Some studies suggest that aluminum-containing deodorants/antiperspirants may be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, although the evidence is not conclusive 1, 3.
- Other studies have found no significant association between antiperspirant use and breast cancer risk 2, 4, 5.
- A meta-analysis of case-control studies found no association between the use of underarm antiperspirants or deodorants and the risk of breast cancer 4.
- The use of antiperspirants has been linked to the potential disruption of hormonal pathways and the induction of oxidative stress, which may contribute to cancer development 1.
- However, the majority of the studies agree that there is no strong evidence to support a causal relationship between antiperspirant use and breast cancer risk 2, 4, 5.
Key Findings
- A comprehensive review of existing literature found that societal factors, personal hygiene considerations, and lifestyle changes contribute to the increased usage of antiperspirants, but they do not establish a direct causal connection with breast cancer 1.
- An expert group's analysis of 19 articles found no scientific evidence to support the hypothesis that antiperspirant use increases the risk of breast cancer 2.
- A study suggested that reducing the concentration of aluminum in antiperspirants is a matter of urgency due to its potential toxicity and involvement in cancerogenic processes 3.
- A population-based case-control study found no increased risk of breast cancer associated with antiperspirant use, even among women who shaved with a blade razor or applied products within 1 hour of shaving 5.